Eyes on the Future: Australian and New Zealand Governments Invest in Centre for Eye Health in Papua New Guinea

The Governments of Papua New Guinea, Australia and New Zealand have partnered with one of the region’s most iconic and trusted NGOs, The Fred Hollows Foundation, by investing in a new Centre for Eye Health in Papua New Guinea’s capital Port Moresby.    

This locally owned training facility for eye care specialists, aims to tackle the pressing issue of avoidable blindness and vision impairment, transforming the lives of countless Papua New Guineans   

In a ceremony held this morning at Port Moresby General Hospital to mark the beginning of construction, representatives from the Governments of Australia and New Zealand joined the PNG Minister for Health, The Hon. Elias Kapavore, Port Moresby General Hospital Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Paki Molumi and other dignitaries to welcome this brand-new facility which will leave a lasting legacy, ensuring inclusive and equitable access to eye health care for the people of PNG.    

Minister for International Development and the Pacific the Hon Pat Conroy MP emphasised the value of this investment. 

“Australia has a long-term commitment to partner with the PNG Government to improve outcomes in its health sector.  We are proud to support the Fred Hollows Foundation address critical eye health needs in PNG, and reinforce our commitment to gender equality, sustainable development, and regional resilience,” Mr. Conroy said.    

The Fred Hollows Foundation Australia CEO Ian Wishart said the investment was about transforming lives and strengthening communities.    

“PNG has one of the highest rates of avoidable blindness and vision impairment in the world, with only seven provinces out of 22 having an eye doctor. Increased investment in PNG’s eye health system is essential,” Mr. Wishart said.  

“Building the Centre will expand training for eye health professionals, helping to build and strengthen the eye care workforce across all provinces, supporting services to the most marginalised and remote communities across PNG.

“This investment in eye health is an investment in PNG’s future, unlocking the potential of countless individuals to contribute to the nation's growth and resilience.”  

It’s estimated that 5.6% of the PNG population over 50 years of age are living with blindness, and a further 21.1% of people are expected to have vision impairment1.  

With 61% of blindness in PNG affecting women, especially in rural Highlands, the Centre will ensure women and girls receive essential eye care, aligning with Australia’s commitment to gender equity and improved health.  

The Centre for Eye Health will be a purpose-built facility, providing specialist eye care services and comprehensive training for eye health professionals across PNG, to address PNG’s complex eye health needs. The Centre's climate-proofing and energy-efficient design ensures it will serve the community for generations. 

Investing in eye health yields high returns, with every USD $1 spent on cataract treatment in PNG delivering USD $29.50 in economic benefits2. Restoring sight benefits individuals, families and communities, reducing caregiving responsibilities and boosting economic growth. 

The Centre for Eye Health is due for completion in 2026. The facility will be owned by the PNG Government through its National Department of Health and will be jointly operated through the Port Moresby General Hospital and University of Papua New Guinea School of Medicine and Health Sciences and supported by member organisations of the PNG National Prevention of Blindness Committee. 

The Australian Government’s $2.82 million contribution builds on an existing investment through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) under the PNG Eye Health Program. This support aims to strengthen the provincial eye health workforce, equip eye clinics in remote and regional areas, and enhance patient access to eye care services through outreach initiatives.